HIGHTSTOWN -- While some of his East teammates have struggled with the short-order learning of a new offense and terminology, New Egypt High School guard Jacob German has made a smooth transition to the pistol scheme implemented by head coach Jon Adams.

"We ran four different offenses in my four years, everything from the Wing-T to the spread," German said. "So when we're running jet and isolation, my versatility has helped."

His intelligence, solid technique and physical style -- all impressive during Thursday's live session at the East practice -- haven't hurt his standing, either. In fact the coaching staff said German has been one of the biggest surprises for the East squad.

While the 6-foot-1, 240-pounder played all three offensive line positions for New Egypt, he will settle in at left guard for Tuesday's 7 p.m. Sunshine Classic at the College of New Jersey.

"I'm not surprised," said East offensive line coach Joe Frappolli Jr. of Florence. "We played against him. He is a scrappy, tough kid. He has good feet and he likes to get into people.

"From what I've seen, he's a pretty good leader, too. He's a communicator on the line and has taken charge."

While some small-school players feel the need to prove they belong, German arrived without that chip on his shoulder.

"I didn't come here thinking I had something to prove because I came from a small school," German said. "What I was excited about was getting to play with other players who put in the work and care.

"It was refreshing, actually. But I wouldn't mind showing that a small school kid can play a little, too."

German picked up his assignments quickly. In the scheme the East will run in the game, German will be asked to double-team and pull.

"He really won't have to drive-block that much because there won't be anyone over him," said East offensive line coach Frank DeLaurentis, the head coach at Peddie.

"You can see he is focus and team-orientated. He is a kid who has risen to the level of competition around him."

German and the rest of the East offensive line will be charged with opening holes for the running game. With the West overflowing with offensive talent, the East would like to establish the run to open up the pass and take time off the clock.

"This is my last game so I am looking forward to every challenge," said German, who will major in business and administration and management at Kutztown University. "This week has made me appreciate all the things I hated about high school football. It's reminded me just how much I love the sport. It's like my four years of high school are on rewind.

"I'm going to pour my heart out," he added. "When I'm done, I don't want there to be any regrets."

WEST UPDATE

West head coach Tom Hoglen, from Hamilton, said the team's three quarterbacks and three tailbacks will rotate "every few plays" Tuesday night.

"We want to try and keep everyone involved," Holgen said after practice at Hopewell Valley High School. "Every one of those kids has worked hard all week. In our eyes, they are all equal and deserve it."